Devon and Cornwall Police have now issued almost 1,000 fines for coronavirus breaches - with 50 of them issued over last week's bank holiday weekend.

Between April 1 and May 28 officers gave out a total of 989 fixed penalty notices relating to breaches of of Covid-19 legislation, with almost a quarter of these to people living outside the force area.

Out of the 50 fines that were issued over Spring Bank Holiday, 38 per cent related to overnight stays including second homes and campervans.

The remainder were mainly for groups and gatherings.

Over that same weekend, officers carried out high visibility patrols at more than 900 locations across Devon and Cornwall.

Assistant Chief Constable Glen Mayhew said: “Over the past two months officers have spoken to hundreds of thousands of people in relation to Covid-19 regulations and a very small percentage of those interactions have resulted in fines being issued.

"Officers have used discretion in each and every situation to engage, educate and encourage before using enforcement as a last resort where necessary.

“A crucial part of this process for us has been to work closely with our communities in order to shape the approach we took and to enable us to understand the concerns and issues within our own towns and villages.

"Many of you told us that you were concerned about second homes and overnight stays so that was an area we focussed on, particularly since the changes to lockdown earlier this month.

“I would like to thank the majority of the people who continue to play their part in this national endeavour and whom I hope will continue to take personal responsibility for their actions, which remains key with the easing of lockdown restrictions."

He said as the country moved into the next phase of lockdown, police would continue to ask people to 'Think Twice' about their actions and whether they were safe and fair.

They should also:

- Check what amenities might be available at the location they’re travelling to – will the toilets be open?

- If they arrive and find a full car park, find an alternative and safe place to park, or come back later.

- Be respectful of the community they are visiting – if the bins are full, take rubbish home.

- Check their car is in a roadworthy condition before leaving the house and take care when driving.

This week the government has issued new guidance which, from Monday, June 1, will allow up to six people to meet outside.

"Please remember that mass gatherings and overnight stays are still unlawful under Covid-19 regulations and where breaches are reported, we will respond and act accordingly," added ACC Mayhew.

For anyone wishing to report a breach of Covid-19 legislation call 101 or email 101@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk if the call is not urgent. Always call 999 in an emergency where a crime is in progress or there is a threat to life.